Volume XLIX (49) Part 2

Transcription

1 IMPORTANT NOTE While the cover of this volume shows it to be Volume XXXXX (Ostensibly 50) Part It SHOULD HAVE BEEN LABELLED AS Volume XLIX (49) Part 2 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ If citing this volume, please be sure to use the Volume 49, Part 2 ONLY THE COVER WAS INCORRECT ALL INTERNAL INFORMATION IS OK! Ed King, Grand Librarian 3/2015

2 THE ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY-SEVENTH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION Grand Lodge XXXXX 2006 Part II of Maine HELD AT PORTLAND, MAY 2 & 3, 2006

3 Two copies of this Book of Proceedings are mailed to the Secretary of every Lodge in the Jurisdiction. They are the property of the Lodge for the use of the Brethren. One copy should be handed to the Worshipful Master of the Lodge as soon as received and the Worshipful Master should arrange for all portions of the address of the Grand Master relating to the procedure, or conduct of the brethren, to be read in open Lodge at an early date. He should delegate a member of the Lodge to study the report of the various committees and other reports and have him bring in a detailed study for discussion in Open Lodge. One copy should be on the Secretary's desk at every meeting. Additional copies will be sent upon request

4 GERALD S. LEIGHTON GRAND MASTER

5 ELECTED GRAND OFFICERS

6 APPOINTED GRAND OFFICERS

7 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 281 NOTICE The following 13 pages contain the report of a Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine, which was held on October 16, 2004, at the Shrine Center in Bangor, Maine. This report was written for inclusion as a part of the Proceedings of the 186 th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine. However, it was inadvertently omitted from the printing. That Special Communication was held for the purpose of conducting business, which had been overlooked at the Regular Communication during the previous May. At that meeting, the Report of the Finance Committee was read and approved by vote of the Brethren present. However, there had been no specific vote to approve the Per Capita Tax for the upcoming year. At the October 16 th meeting the Per Capita Tax was approved as required. It is necessary to include this report in these Proceedings as official documentation of that action. You will find that other business was conducted at that meeting, which you should find to be interesting reading. Respectfully submitted, Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary

8 282 Proceedings of the [May GRAND LODGE OF MAINE, A. F. & A. M. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION A Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine was held on Saturday, October 16, 2004, at Anah Shrine Temple in Bangor, Maine for the purpose of balancing the Grand Lodge Budget, which was passed at the 185 th Annual Communication in May of this year. The Grand Lodge of Maine was opened at 10:00 a.m., in Ample Form, by M. W. Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master of Masons in Maine. The following Grand Lodge officers were present: Claire V. Tusch Grand Master Gerald S. Leighton Deputy Grand Master Bradford D. Blake Senior Grand Warden Randy Adams Junior Grand Warden Harold E. McKenney Grand Treasurer Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary A. James Ross Grand Senior Deacon (Acting) Robert Stratton Grand Junior Deacon Robert Wade, II Grand Steward Randy Burleigh Grand Marshal Norman Rust Grand Chaplain Howard Moulton Grand Tyler Harland S. Hitchings Past Grand Master George P. Pulkkinen Past Grand Master Brian A. Paradis Past Grand Master Charles E. Ridlon Past Grand Master Charles Norberg D.D.G.M. N. James Coolong Past Senior Grand Warden Patrick Whitney Past Junior Grand Warden The Grand Chaplain, V. Wor. and Rev. Norman Rust delivered the Invocation. An Honor Guard from the Grand Commandery of Maine presented the colors in the East and led the Brethren in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Country. The Grand Marshal introduced each of the Past Grand Masters and they were accorded the Private Grand Honors by the Brethren. The Grand Master introduced R.W. Thomas Pulkkinen, Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. He was accorded the Public Grand Honors by the Brethren. The Grand Master also introduced Wor. Roland Gendreau, W.M. of Rising Virtue Lodge No. 10; Wor. Robert Chaput, W.M. of St. Andrews Lodge No. 83 and R.W. John Tripp, President of the Masonic Temple Association at Bangor, Maine. R.W. Thomas Pulkkinen spoke on behalf of Paul Dean Lodge in Massachusetts concerning the Dedication of the ornate Lodge Furniture, which they had previously donated to the lodges in Bangor Maine that lost their furniture in the fire of December He noted that two weeks ago, M.W. Donald Gardner Hicks, Grand Master of

9 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 283 Masons in Massachusetts, consolidated two Massachusetts lodges; Paul Revere Lodge and Paul Dean Lodge. It was because of that consolidation that this beautiful furniture became available for this purpose. R.W. Brother Pulkkinen introduced R.W. Richard Duhane, District Deputy, who introduced several other Brethren from Massachusetts. They included: R.W. Carl Anderson, Past District Deputy and Past Master of Paul Dean Lodge; Wor. Joseph White, Past Master of Paul Dean Lodge; R.W. Robert Smith, Past Master of Paul Dean Lodge and Past District Deputy; Wor. Charles Woodman, Past Master of Paul Dean Lodge; Wor. Doug G. Massey, Past Master of Paul Revere Lodge; R.W. James Holmes, Past District Deputy, and Brother Stewart Dudley, 17 th District Service officer and Organist. They were welcomed to Maine with a standing ovation by the Brethren. R.W. Carl Anderson presented a History of Paul Dean Lodge. The furniture originally came from St. Johns Lodge in New York and was received by Paul Dean Lodge in the 1880 s. Wor. Joseph White presented a Plaque to be affixed to the Organ, which had been donated along with the furniture. The Brethren of Paul Revere Lodge also presented M.W. Claire Tusch with a check for the Bangor Masonic Building Fund. Wor. Robert Chaput, of St. Andrews Lodge, expressed the appreciation of the two Maine lodges and the Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Maine. The Grand Master commented on the current situation, whereas, three sites are being considered as locations for a future Masonic Center for Bangor. M.W. Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master of Masons in Maine, read the following report concerning the purpose of this Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine: STATEMENT OF FACTS The 2004 Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine approved a budget for the year No proposal was made or considered at that Annual Communication to set a per capita tax sufficient to fund the approved budget. As a result, the Grand Lodge at this time has insufficient income to meet the approved expenditures. A question has arisen as to whether the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Maine allows a Special Communication to approve a per capita tax in this situation. MASONIC LAW The relevant provisions of Maine Masonic Law are as follows: (1.) The Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Maine authorizes the Grand Master to call a special communication. (Const., Sec. 3.). (2.) The rules for the government of Grand Lodge include the following provision: All matters not finally disposed of at the close of the Grand Lodge, unless in the hands of the committee or postponed to the next communication, are lost. (Const., Sec. 44, Rule 20) (3).

10 284 Proceedings of the [May (3.) Decisions of a Grand Master are made for the purpose of interpreting written laws, where uncertainty exists, and determining their application to particular situations which may from time to time develop (Decisions, 1995). DISCUSSION To the extent that there is any uncertainty concerning a provision of our Constitution, the Grand Master is authorized by Decision to resolve that issue and his decision is either approved at the next Annual Communication, thus becoming part of Masonic Law in this Grand Jurisdiction, or it is disapproved at the next Annual Communication and has no further validity. The obvious intent of Rule 20 is to clear the agenda by providing that all matters raised at a Communication are deemed lost unless they are approved, voted down, referred to committee or specifically postponed. Applying the facts of the present situation to our Masonic Law, I find that no proposal was made or considered to approve a per capita tax at the last Annual Communication. Not having been placed before the Craft at all, such a proposal could not possibly be considered as being there and not finally disposed of. Even if it had been raised, not finally disposed of and deemed lost, there is no reason why it could not be raised at the next Communication. Common sense tells us that our Constitution should not be interpreted in such a way as to leave our Grand Lodge without sufficient income to meet the budget approved by the Craft. DECISION It is my decision as Grand Master that a Special Communication does have constitutional authority to consider and approve a per capita tax to fund an approved budget where a per capita tax was neither proposed nor considered at the previous Annual Communication. Dated at Portland, Maine this Sixteenth day of October Claire V. Tusch Grand Master of Masons in Maine The Grand Master then introduced Brother Guy Chapman, Chairman of the Grand Lodge Finance Committee. Brother Chapman presented a Power Point Program to explain the situation with the Grand Lodge budget and the need to increase the Per Capita Tax in order to adequately fund the budget.

11 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 285 REPORT OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE The purpose of this Special Communication is to balance the budget that was approved at Grand Lodge Annual Communication in May of this year. In order to do this, the per capita tax needs to be increased by $2.00. The total Grand Lodge assessment at the present time is $8.25. This is broken down as follows: $6.75 per capita tax, $1.00 for the Maine Mason and $0.50 for the insurance bond. At the 2004 Annual Communication the Maine Mason fee was increased by $2.00 for a total of $3.00. There has been no change in the Insurance fee of $0.50. The Maine Mason fee was increased to $3.00 to cover the cost of printing the Maine Mason three or four times a year rather than twice per year. The cost of publishing each issue is approximately $17,000. The present income of $24,000 doesn't cover the cost of printing it twice a year. A budget was approved at Grand Lodge in May with a $35,000 deficit. In order to balance this budget a $2.00 increase in the per capita tax has been proposed. Also at the Grand Lodge session the Maine Mason Charge was increased from $1.00 to $3.00 making the total cost to the lodges $ If the $2.00 increase is approved the cost to the lodges will be a total of $12.25 per member. The break down would be as follows: $8.75 per capita tax, $3.00 for the Maine Mason, and $0.50 for the insurance bond for a total of $ The Per Capita was increased to $6.36 in the 1999 Grand Lodge Communication. It was increased again in 2000 to $6.75. Since then there have been no increases. If Grand Lodge increased the per capita tax every year at the allowable rate, the present per capita rate would be $8.52 for the fiscal year 2004, very close to our current needs to have a balanced budget. GRAND LODGE PER CAPITA TAX If annual increases of 6% had been in place since 1999: Tax Change 1999 $6.00 $ $6.36 $ $6.75 $ $7.16 $ $7.58 $ $8.04 $ $8.52 $9.03 Proposed $ 2.00 increase would be $ If we are to continue to make our fraternity strong and viable we must keep pace with the current costs. The $2.00 increase is the equivalent to the price of a gallon of gasoline or less than a couple of cups of coffee in most fast food restaurants. Between 1999 & 2000 the cost of living has risen by 12% and has risen another 1.3% in the first quarter of 2004 for a total of 13.3% to date.

12 286 Proceedings of the [May The only items that have remained stable or dropped are electricity, new and used vehicles and apparel. Housing, regular gasoline, medical costs, and all other costs have had double digit increases in cost. The price for #2 heating oil in Maine has gone from $0.86/gallon in the seasons to $1.77/gallon as of today, an increase of $0.91, which is an increase of 1.06% (more than double). This trend is expected to continue, but at a slower rate of increase. This item alone affects the rent that Grand Lodge pays to the Masonic Temple Association in Portland. In spite of these increases your Grand Lodge has tried to maintain a stable budget with little or no increase. The expenses in 1999 were $247,813. The 2004 expenses were $275,850, a difference of $28,037, a total increase of 11% or 2.17% per year, compounded. The Grand Lodge has stayed below the CPI and until the 2004 fiscal year they maintained less than 0% increase. Income & Expense for Fiscal Years from 1999 to 2004 SUMMARY OF INCOME AND EXPENSES End of Net Gain Fiscal Year Income Expense (Loss) 1999 $ 271,097 $ 247,813 $ 23, $ 298,486 $ 264,706 $ 33, $ 273,062 $ 214,022 $ 59, $ 277,758 $ 236,970 $ 40, $ 196,391 $ 240,121 $(43,730) 2004 $ 288,113 $ 275,850 $ 12,263 Our loss in membership must also be addressed. Since 1999 the Grand Lodge has gone from a total of 27,097 members to 24,731 members in 2003, a loss of 2,981 members or 11%. If we continue to lose members at the rate of 600 members per year in 40 years we won't have enough members to fill a lodge hall. How many of you are York, Scottish and Shrine Masons? All of these bodies are losing members at a slower rate. Without a growth in membership none of these bodies will be able to survive. The following table shows the losses from 1999 to the present. LOSS IN MEMBERSHIP Year Members Loss Loss in $ $ 3, $ 3, $ 3, $ 3, $ 4, $ 5, Total Loss: $ 24,063.51

13 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 287 It is the recommendation of the finance committee that this report is accepted and a motion be made and seconded from the floor to increase the per capita tax from $6.75 to $8.75. Respectively submitted, Guy F. Chapman, Chairman M.W. Brian Paradis Frank Dixon Raymond McLellan Alvin McDonald Brother Guy Chapman: I would like to propose, Most Worshipful, Sir, that this report be accepted and that a motion be made from the floor to increase the Per Capita Tax by $ Motion by Wor. James Dufresne to accept the report and the recommendation. Motion seconded by the Worshipful Master of Nollesemic Lodge No The following discussion took place: Master of Orient Lodge No. 15: It appears that over the past six years, there has been a surplus totaling $ 126, My question is where is that $ 126,000; it should be sitting in a surplus account someplace and why can t we tap that money rather than having an additional per capita. Where does the surplus go at the end of the year? The Grand Treasurer explained that any surplus of funds is carried forward in the General Fund and is included in the starting balance of the next year. Master of Orient Lodge: At Grand Lodge, we did eliminate the 6% cap on increases in the Per Capita. In addition, we voted an increase in the assessment for the Maine Mason. This was caused by a lack of transparency. We should have had a detailed budget. I would suggest that we defeat this proposal; Masonry will survive. Wor. Christian Ratliff, Master of Triangle Lodge No. 1: Most Worshipful Grand Master, I am inquiring about the $ 140,000 change in income from 2002 and This was explained by the Grand Treasurer as being related to the drop in the Stock Market after 9/11/2001. Wor. Brother Ratliff: What this does for us Brethren is that it tells us that the demand for money is not driven by loss of membership but rather by increases in expenses that we can t control. I think we need a better system of handling our finances going forward. We are fortunate to have a Budget to look at, however, it is just a document. It does not afford us an opportunity to review each line item or to have a line item veto. We need a better transparency to look at so that we can scrutinize programs that are valuable and programs that are not so valuable. Now, I don t think there is really a question here. There s no alternative. So, I ll be voting in the affirmative but we

14 288 Proceedings of the [May should be looking at going forward and how we can control our money. Thank you, Most Worshipful. The Grand Treasurer explained the process by which we determine the amount of time spent by each of our employees at Grand Lodge in order to determine a proper allocation of cost charged to both the Grand Lodge and the Charitable Foundation. R.W. Patrick Whitney, P.J.G.W.: Most Worshipful Grand Master, I d like to make a statement if I could. Each of our lodges is in the same predicament as Grand Lodge. In my own lodge, we went from $ dues to $ dues rate in anticipation of your per capita tax increase. I think, Brethren that we are selling ourselves short in Masonry when we compare the amount of money we spend for a single cup of coffee. My experience with Grand Lodge has shown me that they are very frugal. One other thing, if our lodges are worried about the Grand Lodge taking this money and not doing with it what they should, then they can get their money back by applying for Community Betterment Grants and so forth. I m going to vote for this increase and I want to commend the Finance Committee for their work Grand Master: I will at this time call for a vote on the motion. All those in favor of the motion to raise the per capita tax by $ 2.00 please raise your voting cards in the usual manner. All those opposed? Motion carries. The Grand Master directed the Grand Marshal to escort Wor. Paul G. Webster to the East. He also called the Grand Secretary to the East and then proceeded to present Wor. Paul G. Webster, Past Master of Governor William King Lodge No. 219, with a Fifty Year Veteran's Medal. It was noted that Wor. Brother Webster resides in Florida during the winter months and had been unable to attend his home lodge to receive the medal. The Grand Secretary presented him with the Fifty-Year Lapel Pin. Wor Brother Webster thanked the Grand Master and stated that he appreciated R. W. Brother Dixon being present because, when he was the Master of Governor William King Lodge, he had raised Brother Dixon. The Grand Master called upon M.W. George Pulkkinen to speak about the Maine Mason Magazine. M.W. Brother Pulkkinen stated that he would help R.W. Jim Ross to get the magazine together and get it published. He explained that, if he receives the material within the next week, he would be able to get a magazine published by Thanksgiving. The Grand Master called R.W. Donald A. Spike Savage to the East. R.W. Donald A. Savage, District Deputy Grand Master of the First Masonic District, called on Wor. Gary Smith, the President of the First Masonic District's Masters and Warden's Association, who presented the Grand Master with a Plaque in recognition of the support which Grand Lodge has extended to the Aroostook County Teen Leadership Camp over the past several years. He noted that between Grand Lodge and the Masters and Wardens Association, they have donated over two thousand dollars each year, for the last two years, to the Teen Leadership Camp. The Grand Master

15 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 289 congratulated him and the Association for their commitment to this outstanding program. The Senior Grand Warden, R.W. Bradford D. Blake, asked to approach the East, where he made the following proposal: Thirty-four Grand Lodges in the United States, that we recognize, recognize Prince Hall Grand Lodges that exist within their respective Jurisdictions. They are Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah (those chartered by Colorado but not Texas), Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. The Grand Lodge of Maine only recognizes the Prince Hall Grand Lodges of Massachusetts and Connecticut. In my District a Prince Hall Mason, in the military, was unable to attend Lodge and witness the Degrees of a friend because he did not belong to a Prince Hall Grand Lodge that we recognize. Brethren, as your Senior Grand Warden, whose jewel is the Level, and represents Equality, I move that the Committee On Fraternal Relations determine which Prince Hall Grand Lodges in the United States meet our requirements for recognition, and that the Grand Lodge of Maine contact those Prince Hall Grand Lodges to establish Recognition and Fraternal Relations. Grand Master: That suggestion will be passed on to the Chairman of our Committee on Fraternal Relations, Brother Herbert Annis, who will go to work on it. Actually, Brother Annis is already working toward that goal. The Grand Master called the Grand Lodge at ease while arrangements were made to accommodate a panel of young Masons that will discuss their motivation to become Masons and their ideas about Masonry in Maine. A young Mason, Brother Thomas Heath, will facilitate the discussion. The panel will include: Brother Joe Shaw; Brother Jerry Shaw; Brother Mahlon Welch and Brother Christian Ratliff. Brother Tom Heath introduced the program and then called for a show of hands from those members that joined the fraternity while under the age of thirty. About half of those present raised their hands. He then asked for those who were active in their lodge when under the age of thirty. A little less raised their hands. He asked: Would it surprise you to know that in Grand Lodge today, we have only 330 out of 24,000 Brethren that are under the age of thirty? We have only 53 Brethren that are under the age of twenty-three and we are now accepting eighteen year olds into the fraternity. If you want to look at your decreasing membership, that is where your numbers are coming from. We re not getting the young guys that are sitting up here at this table.

16 290 Proceedings of the [May We re going to try to answer a few questions here this morning and maybe we can come up with a few ideas of how we can reverse that trend. He called on the panel members to introduce themselves and tell of their position in their lodge. Brother Heath asked each panel member to tell about his first experience in the lodge. Brother Jerry Shaw said he was Junior Steward and he helped do the dishes at the lodge. Brother Joe Shaw said his grandfather is a Mason and his father was encouraged to join by his mother who was a Rainbow girl and it just seemed natural for he and his brother to join the Masons. Mahlon Welch stated that his father is a Past Master and his grandfather was a Mason in Parsonfield. As far back as he can remember he was interested in joining the Masons. When he graduated from College, his father took him fishing and they talked about it and about a year later he joined the lodge. Christian Ratliff said that he got interested in the Masons for a lot of reasons but mostly he remembers reading a book by John Richardson called Monitor of Freemasonry and in it they talked about rolling up the guy s pant leg and placing the cable tow, etc. I pictured what it was like and then they talked about how they escorted him around the lodge. At that time I lived in Virginia and there was a little neighborhood lodge there and I could not imagine how at 7:30 at night they could lead this guy with his pant leg pulled up walking around the outside of the building. For years I would drive by there at night and I knew they were meeting and I m just waiting to see if they had some poor schmuck blindfolded and walking around the outside of the building So I joined Deering Lodge and I m ready to take my degrees and I just can not imagine how they re going to walk me around the outside of this building on Forest Avenue. Then I go inside and I find that they walk you around the inside of the hall. That was my first memory and taking my degrees was absolutely incredible. Tom Heath: My first memory of a Masonic Hall was when my father was a Junior Warden at Union and the Masonic Hall is right across the street from our house. So he dragged my Mother and I up there to help him set up the kitchen. Then after the meetings I could look out my bedroom window and see him standing outside with some of the other Brethren and they d be standing around talking and I d go over there to talk with them. But he would send me back home so that I could go to school the next day. But some of the common themes of all of you Brethren are that we all had families that were involved and we got involved through our family connections and that is what got us in really. Any opportunity you can get to bring family into the lodge hall is a good thing because you start to get that exposure with the other Brethren.

17 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 291 Tom Heath: Everybody here is an officer so I ll ask, What made you want to be an officer in your lodge? Jerry Shaw: I actually felt obligated to, our numbers are very low in our lodge and there aren t very many active Brothers and the age group is getting up there too. So I thought if I m going to be active, I might as well be an officer and my father started going through the line after my sister became Worthy Advisor in the Rainbow. When he started to work his way up, I decided to start working my way up. I decided that I didn t want to do dishes anymore so getting out of the Junior Steward s chair seemed like a good idea. Joe Shaw: Actually, I did the same thing. It did get a little competitive but I really felt that the lodge was involved with providing service to the community and I wanted to get involved. I wanted to learn more and by being involved I could prove myself as a Mason. Mahlon: When I first joined the lodge, after I was raised, I had a night job and I really couldn t get involved much in the lodge. But after about six months or a year, I got a day job and I wanted to learn more and I was serious about the ritual and all. Having only been to literally about three or four meetings after I was raised and after that year of trying to read as much as I could, I really wanted to get back involved and doing hands on methods of working with the Brethren. Christian Ratliff: Gee, everybody has family in the craft; I didn t have any family that was involved in Masonry. I never found engagement but before I ever even submitted my petition I knew that was what I wanted to be. That was what drove me into the craft. I was so engaged in History, I d learned so much about it; I d heard all these exposures and I d heard all these decisions. It was totally interesting to me and the very first day that I knelt down at the Alter at Deering Lodge, I knew I wanted to be involved in all the jobs there were in the lodge. I wanted to do everything there was and to learn everything that I could get my hands on. That passion has not gone away yet, which is probably not good. But, you know, just being engaged and what you guys do in creditable. You really think about it and depending what sources you read; I thought that the ritual was read right out of the book because the woodcuts that I d seen of that time period (the 1860 s, when these books were written) people didn t know.so the woodcuts about Masonic Lodges showed the Master reading out of the book and the Deacons reading from the book. So when I took my first degree, when they took the blindfold off I fully expected to see the Master reading out of a book. And to think that they had memorized it was just such a powerful commitment and it said that they were interested; that you were worth something to them. We won t spend time to learn something to teach each other and to teach the candidate something, not just about the craft but also about life. And that is a powerful opportunity that you really don t get in any other organization. So there was never any question about my interest in becoming a Mason.

18 292 Proceedings of the [May Tom Heath: I have been doing theater since I was in the third grade. I don t do any acting because I can t sing. But when I got into the Masonic Lodge I said Wow, I can act in here without having to sing. That s sounded great to me. Before my Master Mason degree, I was giving my lesson for my Fellow Craft degree and I did an okay job on that. Afterwards, the Grand Master, Charles Ridlon, came up to me and said, What office are you going to take first? I happen to think the degrees are beautiful. I think that anyone that gets involved in Masonry is going to want to get active. It is something that really sets us apart from other organizations. Next question: Other than the ritual what s your favorite part of the Masonic experience? Jerry Shaw: Actually, I think the feeling of Brotherhood; the feeling of being around people that I like; that I know; being able to share compassions and I just like the aspect of fellowship. I mean being able to go by our tenants; I like that. Even in this society when nobody does that any more. Joe Shaw: My favorite aspect of it the community service; the programs like CHIPS; doing the baskets around Thanksgiving and stuff. I just love serving and giving; my first priority is relief and brotherly love. You know the tenants of Masonry. As well as the relief, as Jerry said, we ran a service fraternity when we were in college. We obviously want to keep on doing that in another organization. That s my true passion for coming to this lodge I guess. Mahlon: I just love the fraternity. I guess it s for self-improvement. It gives me an opportunity to really push myself in a lot of different areas. (Tape inaudible) Christian: I love the ritual. I am so engaged in the ritual. I think there s a corollary that goes with that which I find particularly interesting and that there s no man in here from the Grand Master down to the newest Master Mason who can tell any other person what Masonry is. There are a lot of things we can say it s about; we have a lot of tab lines: Making good men better. But at the end of the day, what you went through when you became a Mason is so personal and distinctive and individually focused on you and your reasons for becoming one are so timely specific to you as an individual that gives Masonry it s real character. And that s what is so engaging that we are not all paper cutouts. I m not like most of the people here. Everybody here is so distinct from each other. And we all have different things we grow on; different things we learn from it. We hear different things when we listen to the ritual; there are little tidbits that each of us pulls out that is very distinctive. And that personalization and that not getting everybody to agree with the same thing. I think what really counts is the fraternity and that s why we really hold all together through the most tumultuous times in society. We almost banished our existence at one point but it was that individual element that keeps us all together. The little things that keep me coming to lodge are different from the little things that keep other people engaged. If Masonry can wrap its hands around

19 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 293 all of that, it s core to what really helps us to continue this organization. I think that s really phenomenal. Tom Heath: I m thoroughly into the Brotherly aspect of the fraternity. Monday night, my father said, Want to go to Buckfield for a lodge meeting? About an hour and a half later, I said, Are they doing anything special? No just a Stated Communication. So we hoped into the car, dropped my sister of at College and went to the lodge meeting in Buckfield. Why? Why not. That s amazing to me; when I walked into this room this morning, there were so many people here that I know. That sort of grounding that you get from an organization like this. That s sort of universal, I don t care how old you are. Now, we re sort of running out of time here; so, my last question: Tom Heath: What aspect of Masonry, if you were going to try to get one of your friends to join, what aspect of Masonry would you emphasize that you think would get them the most excited about our fraternity? Joe Shaw: Sometimes, like the work that we are doing, it s three or five days a week, sometimes. So it s hard to make them see why we go; so when I emphasize it, I always say. I ve seen younger fellows and they come into the lodge and they start out not being a part of it and advancing like Mahlon is. He s very advanceful. You have to ask him. You know they start out going through the line and they start out with a small speaking part or not even a speaking part. And it builds character and it builds a person. I just love it. There are people that Jerry and I know that are Boy Scouts or Eagle Scouts or whatever. We should try emphasizing that and it s not just about the fraternity. You know you keep thinking ritual. It s not just about that. It s about building your own personal self and learning how to be a public speaker and making a difference in your community. And that s the party that I usually emphasize. I learned that from my Uncle, Chuck Ridlon, who, I forgot to mention, is in the family. Mahlon: There are a lot of things that I tell my friends. There are a lot of fraternal organizations out there but we are truly unique in our age and scope and ritual and things that we emphasize. That s something that no other fraternal organization seems to have out there. That s something that you can spend a lifetime you know when you re doing researching and the depth that is something that attracted me and would attract other people in connection to the History and all kinds of events. Christian: I think that I take a different approach with each individual person. It s one thing to sell people Masonry and you can do that and you certainly have seen it done. And you see a lot of people come in for that afternoon. But I think part of what it means is to describe Masonry to somebody is to hear what there interests are; what they are engaged about and then to find out what assets Masonry has to really be a match for them. That really works out. If someone is interested in History, maybe talk about the History of different lodges or talk about how we ve been active in different parts of World History and the types of things that we ve done in public education in the United States and of course we ve had an important role in a lot of very important phases of American History and World History. Maybe they re interested in

20 294 Proceedings of the [May Philanthropy. Everyone in this room knows you can talk all day long about the facts of Philanthropy, all the way from Masonry itself up to all (Tape inaudible) lodges. So at the end, what I really try to do is to listen to what they re interested in and try to find things in Masonry that they would get from and that they would contribute to. And always accentuate that a lodge is not an autonomous body. This room is made up of our skills. If nobody in here can open the front door and the place catches on fire we re all in bad shape. Right? So a lodge is made up of all of our individual skills. So, for instance, at Deering Lodge, which is my mother lodge, we re not so great at our integration with the community. So when we talk with people that are coming in, we really try to engage them with that. Are you interested in that? What kind of things do you do in the community and we try to find and identify people that have certain skills and really put them to work. Tom Heath: I hear a lot of Brethren say they really don t know how to approach a twenty year old, a forty-five year old, a thirty year old. They wouldn t even know where to begin approaching someone that age to try to get them interested in the fraternity. Have we said anything up here that any of you Brethren can relate to? Can you think of some twenty, twenty-five or thirty year old that would be a good addition to the fraternity? We ve given you some ideas and I know I m certainly trying to get some people my age to join. The Brethren accorded this panel of young Masons a standing ovation for their presentation. Grand Lodge was closed at 3:30 p.m. in Ample Form by the Grand Master. **********************************************************************

21 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 295 GRAND LODGE OF MAINE, A. F. & A. M. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION A Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine, A.F. & A.M. was held on Sunday, June 5, 2005 for the purpose of holding a semi-public dedication of the new Lodge Hall of Webster Lodge No. 164, A.F. & A.M. at Wales, Maine. Most Worshipful Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master, opened Grand Lodge in Ample form at 1:45 p.m. A procession was formed at 2:00 p.m. and proceeded into the Lodge Hall. The procession marched once around the lodge and the proper officers deposited the vessels of Corn, Wine and Oil and the burning tapers in the South, West and East on the carpet between the Alter and the West. The following Grand Lodge officers participated in the ceremony: Claire V. Tusch Grand Master Gerald S. Leighton Deputy Grand Master Robert R. Landry Senior Grand Warden Guy F. Chapman Junior Grand Warden Harold E. McKenney Grand Treasurer Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary Leon E. Allen, Jr. Grand Senior Deacon Robert D. Stratton Grand Junior Deacon Thomas E. Ray Grand Chaplain Gordon L. Kimball, Jr. Grand Senior Steward Michael Mowles Grand Junior Steward Walter W. Lamb Grand Sword Bearer R. Nelson Pearson Grand Standard Bearer Randall Burleigh Grand Marshal Stephen E. Nichols Grand Lecturer Howard W. Moulton Grand Tyler Rev. Ronald Smith Grand Chaplain Emeritus Wayne T. Adams Past Grand Master Allen R. Heath Past Senior Grand Warden Kenneth L. Richardson Past Junior Grand Warden Robert N. Hilts, Jr. D.E.R. 23 rd Masonic District Wor. Richard A. Grondin, Master of Webster Lodge No. 164, welcomed the Grand Master in the East, where he was accorded the Public Grand Honors by the Brethren. The Brethren and their guests joined in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Country. Officers of Webster Lodge No. 164, A.F. & A.M. present included: Richard A. Grondin Van E. Sullivan Ronald P. Caron Worshipful Master Senior Warden Junior Warden

22 296 Proceedings of the [May Thomas L. Winslow Treasurer Elbert O. Derick Secretary F. Jordan Witherell Chaplain Marcel J. Morin Senior Deacon Donald Bilodeau Senior Steward David St.Hilaire Junior Steward Ronald Chisholm Tyler Wor. Elbert O. Derick, the Architect, presented a report on the History of Webster Lodge: Since receiving its first dispensation September 23 rd, 1871, Webster Lodge #164 was held in various rented quarters. Although acquiring a property in 1910, it was never improved nor occupied by the Lodge, and was disposed of in 1923 upon the death of M.W. Frank Sleeper. Brother Sleeper was the founding Master of Webster Lodge and that acquisition was his favored project though apparently not fully supported by other members of the Lodge. Webster Lodge moved into the third floor of the Sabattus Town Hall in 1938, and remained there for 65 years. In 1990, the membership recognized a need for a future Lodge home. They re-incorporated The Webster Masonic Temple Association, and began to build a fund for the same. True to our expectations, in 2002 the Town of Sabattus announced they would be closing the building, and that we would have no home by the end of At that time, our fund raising had produced only $18,000, insufficient by itself to acquire realistic quarters. We received offers for land, but construction of a suitable edifice on our meager budget was not possible. We also thought that if we were to colocate with another Lodge in the district, that the future existence of Webster Lodge would be very limited, and we would likely be absorbed by one or more Lodges in the area. Thus, co-location was not considered a real solution. In the winter of 2002, R.W. Stanton Leighton proposed that Webster Lodge approach Wales Grange #40 with a proposition of co-ownership of this building. The Grange, although being an honorable enterprise, had like Masonry, fallen on hard times. The Grange, suffering from declining membership and slightly in debt, had been unable to properly maintain the property for a number of years. A proposition was negotiated and an agreement drawn up whereby Webster Masonic Temple Association would acquire a half ownership in the property by pledging a $15,000 budget plus labor to restore and improve the building suitable for use. This agreement included extension of use to Lakeside Chapter #60 OES and the Wales Snowmobile Club. The agreement was duly approved by both the Maine State Grange and the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Maine, and was executed on January 23 rd, 2003.

23 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 297 Work and fund raising started immediately. Major renovations to the 1896 Grange Hall began April Over the next 25 months the existing dilapidated building addition was removed and replaced by a slightly larger one, providing a self contained section that could be economically heated. We installed a water system and modern toilets, never before available here. Major structural repairs and upgrades have been made to the original hall building. Nearly all labor expended was by volunteers, leaving the short supply of funds for materials. The only renovations to the Lodge room have been rewiring, addition of the fire escape, new windows, some painting and the carpet. Since no changes have been made to the original building foundation, a formal corner stone was not installed. We have expended over 4,200 man-hours and $30, in the effort to date and have a total debt of $2,000. As a result, the Grange has been able to enjoy a modest recovery in their position, and Webster Lodge and Lakeside Chapter have a new home. Webster Lodge held its first meeting in this hall on September 18 th We are very pleased with the commitment and progress made by the various Brethren and friends who have contributed to the work, both financially and physically. MOST WORSHIPFUL: -Having been entrusted with the Superintendence and management of the workmen employed in the reconstruction of this edifice, and having, according to the best of my ability, accomplished the task assigned me, I now return my thanks for the honor of this appointment, and beg leave to surrender up the implements which were committed to my care when the foundation of this fabric was laid, humbly hoping that the exertions which have been made on this occasion will be crowned with your approbation and that of the Most Worshipful Grand. Lodge. He then turned the Architect s tools over to the Grand Master. The Master of Webster Lodge addressed the Grand Master. The Architect s tools were presented to the Grand Marshal, who in turn presented them to the Deputy Grand Master, Senior and Junior Grand Wardens. The Grand Master instructed the proper officers to inspect the building and make report. The Deputy Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden each inspected the building and reported to the Grand Master that the building was square, level and plumb, respectfully, and that the workmen had done their duty. A procession of Grand Lodge officers was formed and was conducted around the lodge hall by the Grand Marshal. The Grand Chaplain offered the prayer of dedication. The procession marched once around the lodge and the Junior Grand Warden presented the Corn to the Grand Master who deposited it on the carpet and thereby dedicated the Lodge Hall to Freemasonry. The procession marched around the lodge two times and the Senior Grand Warden presented the Wine to the Grand Master, who deposited it upon the carpet and thereby dedicated the Lodge Hall to Virtue.

24 298 Proceedings of the [May The procession marched around the lodge three times and the Deputy Grand Master presented the Grand Master with the Oil, which he deposited on the carpet and thereby dedicated the Lodge Hall to Universal Benevolence. The procession was reformed and the officers returned to their proper stations. The Grand Marshal made his official proclamation. The Grand Master addressed the Wor. Master and then called on several guests to speak. M. W. Wayne T. Adams, Past Grand Master, was escorted to the East where he was accorded the Public Grand Honors. He congratulated the Master and Brethren of Webster Lodge for their dedication and hard work in acquiring and renovating a Grange Hall into a beautiful Lodge Hall. Brother Stephen Verrill, currently the Head of the Maine State Grange, also congratulated the members of Webster Lodge. R.W. Barry Gates, D.D.G.M. was escorted to the East, where he made appropriate remarks and congratulated the Brethren on having not only resurrected a building but also their lodge. The Deputy Grand Master introduced the Grand Lodge officers that participated in the ceremony Other distinguished guests that were introduced included: Ms. Betty Leighton, Worthy Matron, Lakeside Chapter No. 60, O.E.S.; John H. Coombs, Grand Worthy Patron, O.E.S. and Ill Robert J. Landry, Past Grand Commander of Maine Commandery. The Acting Grand Chaplain, R.W. Thomas E. Ray, delivered the Benediction. M.W. Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master of Masons in Maine, closed the Grand Lodge of Maine in Ample Form at 3:07 p.m. The suite of Grand Lodge officers was formed and marched out of the Lodge Hall. Fraternally submitted, Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary

25 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 299 GRAND LODGE OF MAINE, A. F. & A. M. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION A Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine was held on Saturday, August 6, 2005 at Lubec, Maine for the purpose of conducting a Cornerstone Ceremony and a Rededication Ceremony for Washington Lodge No. 37, A.F. & A.M. Most Worshipful Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master, opened the Special Communication at 10:30 a.m. in Ample Form. The following Grand Lodge Officers were in attendance and participated in the ceremonies: Claire V. Tusch Grand Master Gerald S. Leighton Deputy Grand Master Robert R. Landry Senior Grand Warden Guy F. Chapman Junior Grand Warden Dwight Whitney Acting Grand Treasurer Frank M. Theriault, Jr. Acting Grand Secretary Wayne Hitchcock Acting Grand Chaplain Harland S. Hitchings Principal Architect A. James Ross Grand Senior Deacon John Leighton Grand Junior Deacon Kenneth Caldwell Grand Steward David Basley Grand Steward Walter W. Lamb, Jr. Grand Sword Bearer David A. Walker Grand Marshal Howard Moulton Grand Tyler Robert MacCloud Grand Piper John R. Zaiser, Sr. Past Senior Grand Warden Patrick C. Whitney Past Junior Grand Warden On a bright and sunny day in Lubec, Maine, the Suite of Grand Lodge Officers gathered at the, Old Stearns Motel, the site where Washington Lodge No. 37 first met in From that location, the suite was piped in procession to the site of the present Lodge Hall on Main Street. The Grand Master called on M.W. Wayne Hitchcock, who delivered the Invocation. M.W. Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master, and Wor. Bill Case, Master of Washington Lodge, set the Corner Stone in place. It was noted that the Lodge Hall had not had a Corner Stone set when it was originally dedicated. The Grand Master called upon the Deputy Grand Master to inspect the Corner Stone and make report. He reported that the Corner Stone was square and the Craftsmen had done their duty. The Grand Master then called on the Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden to each apply their jewel to the Corner Stone and make report. The Senior Grand Warden reported that the Corner Stone was level and the Craftsmen had done their duty. The Junior Grand Warden reported that the Corner Stone was plumb and the Craftsmen had done their duty. At the direction of the Grand Master, the Deputy Grand Master scattered the corn; the Senior Grand Warden poured the Wine and the Junior Grand Warden poured the Oil of Consecration. The Grand Marshal then made his official proclamation. Grand Lodge was called from labor to refreshment by

26 300 Proceedings of the [May the Grand Master and the Brethren, their Ladies, and Guests enjoyed a luncheon provided by the members of Washington Lodge. At 1:00 p.m., the Grand Lodge officers reconvened in the Lodge Hall and the Grand Master called Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor. The Rededication Ceremony was then begun. A procession of the Grand Lodge Officers marched once around the lodge hall and the vessels of Corn, Wine and Oil and the burning tapers were respectively deposited at the South, West and East points of the carpet (situated between the West and the Alter). The Grand Master assumed the East and the Acting Grand Chaplain delivered a prayer. The Architect addressed the Grand Master and then presented the Square, Level and Plumb to the Grand Marshal. The Master of Washington Lodge addressed the Grand Master and asked that the Lodge Hall be examined and if found to meet his approbation that it be solemnly dedicated. The Grand Marshal was instructed to present the implements to the Deputy Grand Master, the Senior Grand Warden and the Junior Grand Warden. A procession was formed and the Grand Lodge Officers passed through the Lodge and examined the building. The Deputy Grand Master returned and reported that the building was Square and the Craftsmen had done their duty. The Senior Grand Warden reported that the building was Level and the Craftsmen had done their duty. The Junior Grand Warden reported that the building was Plumb and the Craftsmen had done their duty. At the direction of the Grand Master, a procession was formed and marched once around the hall. The Grand Lodge Officers took their respective places and knelt. The Grand Chaplain offered a prayer. The Junior Grand Warden delivered the Corn to the Grand Master, who poured it on the carpet while saying, I dedicate this Hall to Freemasonry. The Senior Grand Warden delivered the Wine to the Grand Master, who poured it on the carpet while saying, I dedicate this Hall to Virtue. The Deputy Grand Master delivered the Oil to the Grand Master, who poured it on the carpet while saying, In the name of the whole Fraternity, I do solemnly dedicate this Hall to Universal Benevolence. Following a prayer, the Grand Marshal made his Official Proclamation. At the conclusion of the Rededication Ceremony, appropriate remarks were made by M.W. Wayne Hitchcock, P.G.M. and M.W. Harland S. Hitchings, P.G.M. The Master of Washington Lodge thanked the Grand Master and his officers for the ceremonies and made appropriate remarks. The Grand Master made his closing remarks and closed the Grand Lodge of Maine at 2:15 p.m., in Ample Form. Fraternally submitted, Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary

27 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 301 GRAND LODGE OF MAINE, A. F. & A. M. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION A Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine, A.F. & A.M. was held on Sunday, September 11, 2005 for the purpose of Rededicating the Masonic Hall at Thomaston, Maine. Grand Lodge was opened at 4:00 p m. in Ample Form by M.W. Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master. At 4:30 p.m., a procession, consisting of the following Grand Lodge officers, was escorted into the hall by the Grand Marshal and assumed their stations. M.W. Claire V. Tusch R.W. Gerald S. Leighton R.W. C. Herbert Annis R.W. Guy Chapman R.W. Harold E. McKenney, Jr. R.W. Hollis G. Dixon V.W. Ronald Raymond R.W. Robert Stratton R.W. Douglass Rackliff R.W. Ralph Knowles R.W. John Baggett R.W. David Walker R.W. Stephen Nichols Grand Master Deputy Grand Master Senior Grand Warden Junior Grand Warden Grand Treasurer Grand Secretary Grand Senior Deacon Grand Junior Deacon Grand Steward Grand Steward Grand Chaplain Grand Marshal Grand Tyler R.W. John Baggett delivered the invocation. R.W. Roger Hannemann presented the working tools to the Grand Marshal. Wor. Brian S. Messing, Master of Orient Lodge No. 15, addressed the Grand Master and called on the Grand Lodge of Maine to proceed with the Rededication of the lodge hall of Orient Lodge No. 15. Under the direction of the Grand Master, a suite of Grand Lodge officers was formed and exited the hall for the purpose of examining the building. After a brief time, the suite reentered the hall and the Deputy Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden were escorted to their stations. The Deputy Grand Master reported that he had examined the building, found it to be square and declared that the workmen had done their duty. The Senior Grand Warden reported that he had examined the building and found it to be level. He declared that the workmen had done their duty. The Junior Grand Warden reported that he found the building to be plumb and declared that the workmen had done their duty. The Grand Master addressed the Architect. The Deputy Grand Master addressed the Grand Master. The Grand Master then called on the Grand Tyler to remove the cover from the implements. The Grand Marshal formed a procession to rededicate the Lodge Hall. The Grand Chaplain was escorted to the Alter.

28 302 Proceedings of the [May The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden assumed their respective stations around the carpet (in the West). The Grand Chaplain delivered a prayer. The procession marched once around the lodge hall and the Junior Grand Warden presented the Grand Master with the Vessel of corn. The Grand Master poured the corn on the carpet and dedicated the lodge hall to, Freemasonry. The procession marched two times around the lodge hall and the Senior Grand Warden presented the Vessel of Wine to the Grand Master. The Grand Master poured the wine on the carpet and dedicated the Lodge Hall to Virtue. The procession marched three times around the Lodge Hall and the Deputy Grand Master presented the Vessel of Oil to the Grand Master. The Grand Master poured the oil upon the carpet and dedicated the Lodge Hall to, Universal Benevolence. The Grand Tyler replaced the carpet over the Vessels and the Grand Chaplain delivered a prayer. The procession was reformed and preceded to conduct the Grand Lodge officers back to their stations. At the direction of the Grand Master, the Grand Marshal made his official proclamation. The Grand Master declared the Rededication Ceremony complete and thanked the Grand Marshal and all of the officers, who had filled in for the various vacancies in the official line, for their participation in the ceremonies. M.W. Claire V. Tusch presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Wor. Brian S. Messing, the Master of Orient Lodge No. 15. Wor. Brother Brian S. Messing in turn, thanked all of the Grand Lodge officers for participating in the Rededication Ceremony. The Master then addressed the Brethren and their guests and spoke about the many and varied activities that have been held or planned for the celebration of the 100 th Anniversary of Orient Lodge No. 15, A.F. & A.M. R.W. Herbert Annis spoke about the creation of Orient Lodge and told of how the officers and members of Amity Lodge in Rockport (his lodge) had opposed the creation of a new Masonic Lodge in Thomaston after Amity Lodge was chartered. That opposition delayed the creation of a lodge in Thomaston until the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts granted the Charter in R.W. Brother Annis officially apologized for that delay. When called on by the Grand Master, the Master of Orient Lodge officially and graciously accepted the apology. The Deputy Grand Master made appropriate remarks. The Grand Marshal escorted the Grand Worthy Patron of the Order of the Eastern Star to the East, where he addressed the Brethren and their guests. Brother John Coombs, who is a member of Orient Lodge congratulated the officers and members of Orient Lodge on the occasion of the Rededication of their hall. M.W. Claire V. Tusch called on each of the Grand Lodge officers to stand and introduce himself. He also introduced and thanked the Organist, Marian Coombs for

29 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 303 the beautiful music. She, in turn, called on the Brethren and their guests to sing, God Bless America. The Grand Master also called on the Junior Deacon of Orient Lodge, who was present dressed in his Military Uniform. Brother Melvaney Dinsmore had recently joined the National Guard and was scheduled to go the gulf coast to aid the survivors of the recent hurricane. The Grand Master called on R.W. Herbert Annis to explain the fund raising program that Grand Lodge has initiated. He spoke about the statewide public suppers that would be held on October 22 nd and the $ 30, that the Charitable Foundation had donated to the M. S. A. for the relief fund. It was noted that Alna-Anchor Lodge had just donated $ 1, to the M. S. A. for relief. R.W. Douglass Rackliff spoke about activities taking place and scheduled to take place in the Ninth Masonic District. The Grand Lodge of Maine was closed at 6:00 p.m. in Ample form by M.W. Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master of Masons in Maine. Fraternally submitted, Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary

30 304 Proceedings of the [May GRAND LODGE OF MAINE, A. F. & A. M. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION The Grand Lodge of Maine held a special communication for the purpose of rededicating Fort Kent Lodge No. 209 of Fort Kent, Maine, on Saturday, September 17, 2005, in Fort Kent at 10:10 a.m. The Lodge had been opened, without form, prior to the arrival of the Grand Lodge officers. The Grand Lodge officers were as follows: M.W. Claire V. Tusch R.W. Gerald S. Leighton R.W. Robert R. Landry R.W. Stephen E. Nichols Wor. Robert A. Hoyt R.W. Frank Theriault Wor. Harold W. Wilson Jr Wor. David King R.W. Milton E. Smith R.W. Donald A. Savage R.W. W. Louis Greenier, II R.W. David A. Walker Bro. Howard W. Moulton Bro. Jeffrey Anderson Grand Master Deputy Grand Master Senior Grand Warden as Junior Grand Warden Senior Grand Deacon as Junior Grand Deacon Senior Steward as Junior Steward as Grand Treasurer as Grand Secretary Chaplain Marshal Tyler Architect Public Grand honors were bestowed on M.W. Wayne H. McKay, Grand Master of New Brunswick, Canada, and R.W. William Boone, Deputy Grand Master of New Brunswick, Canada. Originally being chartered 100 years ago by the Grand Lodge of Maine, the rededication then took place. Wor. Bryan Jandreau then gave a brief history from the writings of Bro. Edgar Thomas Flint s 54-year history of Fort Kent Lodge written in Bro. Flint was also a charter member of Fort Kent Lodge in June of Total attendance was 43 including seven ladies. Lodge was closed in peace and harmony without form by Fort Kent Lodge at approximately 11:30 a.m. Respectfully submitted and attested: Donald A. Savage DDGM Dist. #1 and Secretary Pro tem

31 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 305 GRAND LODGE OF MAINE, A. F. & A. M. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION A Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine was held on Sunday, March 12, 2006 at Warren, Maine for the purpose of conducting a Rededication Ceremony for Saint George Lodge No. 16, on the occasion of their 200 th Anniversary. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form at 12:40 p.m., in the Anteroom, by Most Worshipful Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master of Masons in Maine. The Grand Lodge officers held a brief rehearsal, which was followed by a delicious lunch in the dining room. At 2:00 p.m., a procession of Officers of the Grand Lodge of Maine, A.F. & A.M. was escorted into the Lodge Room by the Grand Marshal. The following officers were in attendance: M.W. Claire V. Tusch Grand Master R.W. Gerald S. Leighton Deputy Grand Master R.W. Robert R. Landry Senior Grand Warden R.W. Guy F. Chapman Junior Grand Warden R.W. Harold E. McKenney Grand Treasurer R.W. Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary Wor. Robert A. Hoyt Grand Senior Deacon Wor. Robert D. Stratton Grand Junior Deacon R.W. Douglas A. Rackliff Grand Steward R.W. Ralph Knowles Grand Steward R.W. David A. Walker Grand Marshal Wor. Walter W. Lamb, Jr. Grand Sword Bearer Wor. & Rev. Norman Rust Grand Chaplain Wor. John D. Baggett Grand Chaplain Bro. Leon J. Petty, Jr. Grand Chaplain Bro. Howard W. Moulton Grand Tyler R.W. Stephen E. Nichols Grand Lecturer R.W. Henry Carey P.D.D.G.M. District No. 9 R.W. Frank Overlock P.D.D.G.M. District No. 9 R.W. Lester Smith P.D.D.G.M. District No. 13 V.W. Randy S. Raymond D.E.R. District No. 9 V.W. Kenneth A. Caldwell D.E.R. District No. 17 A procession of Officers of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, A.F. & A.M. was conducted into the Lodge by R.W. David A. Walker, Grand Marshal: M.W. Jeffrey Hodgdon R.W. William Holland R.W. Richard Burgess R.W. Arthur Johnson R.W. Greg Pearson R.W. Richard Cusack Wor. Richard Doaks Grand Master Deputy Grand Master Senior Grand Warden Grand Secretary Asst. Grand Treasurer Grand Senior Deacon

32 306 Proceedings of the [May Wor. Walter G. Hodgdon Brother Robert Priest Brother David Stole R.W. David Kendrick [from Yarmouth, Maine] Public Relations Following opening remarks by the Grand Master, a procession was formed of the Grand Lodge Line Officers. The procession departed the Lodge Hall to reform in the anteroom. The Grand Tyler placed the carpet midway between the West and the Alter. The procession marched into the Lodge once more and deposited the Vessels of Corn, Wine and Oil and the burning Tapers on the South, West and East portions of the Carpet. Wor. and Reverend Norman Rust delivered the Invocation. Brother Russell Casey Smith, the Architect, addressed the Grand Master: MOST WORSHIPFUL: -Having been entrusted with the Superintendence and management of the workmen employed in the reconstruction of this edifice, and having, according to the best of my ability, accomplished the task assigned me, I now return my thanks for the honor of this appointment, and beg leave to surrender up the implements which were committed to my care when the foundation of this fabric was laid, humbly hoping that the exertions which have been made on this occasion will be crowned with your approbation and that of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge. He then turned the Architect s tools over to the Grand Master. The Master of Saint George Lodge addressed the Grand Master. The Architect s tools were presented to the Grand Marshal, who in turn presented them to the Deputy Grand Master, Senior and Junior Grand Wardens. The Grand Master instructed the proper officers to inspect the building and make report. The Deputy Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden each inspected the building and reported to the Grand Master that the building was square, level and plumb, respectfully, and that the workmen had done their duty. The Grand Marshal picks up the working tools and returns them to the Architect. The Deputy Grand Master requests that the Lodge Hall be Rededicated. The Grand Tyler uncovers the implements of consecration. A procession of Grand Lodge officers was formed and was conducted around the lodge hall by the Grand Marshal. The Grand Chaplain offered the prayer of dedication. The procession marched once around the lodge and the Junior Grand Warden presented the Corn to the Grand Master who deposited it on the carpet and thereby dedicated the Lodge Hall to Freemasonry. The procession marched around the lodge two times and the Senior Grand Warden presented the Wine to the Grand Master, who deposited it upon the carpet and thereby dedicated the Lodge Hall to Virtue.

33 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 307 The procession marched around the lodge three times and the Deputy Grand Master presented the Grand Master with the Oil, which he deposited on the carpet and thereby dedicated the Lodge Hall to Universal Benevolence. The procession was reformed and the officers returned to their proper stations. The Grand Marshal made his official proclamation. The Grand Master made appropriate remarks and complimented the Lodge on the beautiful Masonic Hall which they have just dedicated. He then thanked M.W. Jeffrey Hodgdon, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and invited him to speak. M.W. Brother Hodgdon talked about the history associated with this special event. He presented gifts from his Grand Lodge to the Worshipful Master of St. George Lodge, the Secretary of St. George Lodge and to R.W. Stephen E. Nichols. M.W. Claire V. Tusch presented a gift to M.W. Jeffrey Hodgden and thanked him for traveling to Maine for this special occasion. M.W. Claire V. Tusch finished his official remarks and called on R.W. and Rev. Norman Rust to deliver the Benediction. The Grand Lodge of Maine was closed in ample Form by the Grand Master at 4:00 p.m. The Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was closed in Ample form by M.W. Jeffrey Hodgden at 4:10 p.m. Fraternally submitted, Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary

34 308 Proceedings of the [May GRAND LODGE OF MAINE, A. F. & A. M. SPECIAL COMMUNICATION A Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Maine, A.F. & A.M. was held on Saturday, April 29, 2006 at York, Maine for the purpose of Laying the Cornerstone and Rededicating St Aspinquid Lodge No. 198 following numerous Capital Improvement projects accomplished to upgrade the Lodge building. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form at 9:52 a.m. by M.W. Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master of Masons in Maine. The Grand Lodge officers first assembled outside the Lodge to dedicate a new flagpole donated to the Lodge in memory of Wor. Leon Works, P.M. by his family. The dedication commenced with a prayer offered by Wor. William Haas, Grand Chaplain. The Grand Master greeted the family of Wor. Works including; widow Louise Works, three sons and a daughter. Wor Paul Poulin, P.M. presented the flag to be hoisted to Louise Works, explaining the flag had flown in Iraq when Defense Secretary Rumsfeld was escorted in a helicopter during Operation Iraqi Freedom. The flag was hoisted, the Grand Master made remarks of tribute about Wor. Works, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited and an Invocation offered by Wor. Haas. A procession of Grand Lodge officers marched to the front of the Masonic Hall Building where the Grand Master welcomed the Brethren and their guests. The following Grand Lodge officers were in the procession: Claire V. Tusch Grand Master Gerald S.Leighton Deputy Grand Master Robert Landry Senior Grand Warden Guy F. Chapman Junior Grand Warden Mark S. Zimmerman Acting Grand Treasurer Douglas M. Blaisdell Acting Grand Secretary Robert A. Hoyt Grand Senior Deacon Robert D. Stratton Grand Junior Deacon Lawrence J. Wescott Acting Grand Steward Gordon Kimball Jr Grand Steward William J. Haas Grand Chaplain David A. Walker Grand Marshal Howard Moulton Grand Tyler Walter Lamb Grand Sword Bearer Nelson Pearson Grand Standard Bearer John E. Moulton Grand Organist Stephen E. Nichols Grand Lecturer Robert A. Hoyt Architect A. James Ross D.D.G.M. 17 th District Ralph Knowles D.D.G.M. 10 th District Walter E. Kyllonen D.D.G.M. 19 th District W. Louis Greenier II Grand Chaplain Lester Smith P.D.D.G.M. 13 th District

35 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 309 All those present joined in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Country. The Grand Chaplain, Wor William Haas, delivered the invocation. The Grand Master called on Acting Grand Secretary, Wor Douglas Blaisdell, to read the contents of the 2006 time capsule prior being placed behind the cornerstone by Acting Grand Treasurer, Bro Mark Zimmerman. The contents included; The current St Aspinquid Lodge membership roster The current By-Laws last revised in 2003 Copies of the April and May trestle boards A copy of the lodge Dragonfly Project brochure A copy of the candidate letter of Wor Robert Hoyt for J.G.W. Grand Lodge auto decal commissioned by M.W. Claire V. Tusch Summary of significant lodge changes since 1971 The Grand Master called on the Architect, Wor Robert Hoyt, to present the working tools to the Deputy Grand Master, Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden. The Grand Master then called upon the Deputy Grand Master to apply the tool of his office to the cornerstone and make a report. R.W. Gerald Leighton reported that the Cornerstone was square and the workmen had done their duty. The Grand Master called on the Senior Grand Warden to apply the tool of office to the cornerstone and make a report. R.W. Robert Landry reported that the Cornerstone was level and the workmen had done their duty. The Grand Master called on the Junior Grand Warden to apply the tool of his office to the cornerstone and make a report. R.W. Guy Chapman reported that the Cornerstone was plumb and the workmen had done their duty. The Grand Master instructed the above named Grand Lodge officers to apply the vessels of consecration to the Cornerstone. The Deputy Grand Master applied the corn to the Cornerstone, the Senior Grand Warden applied the wine to the Cornerstone and the Junior Grand Warden applied the oil to the Cornerstone and each reported to the Grand Master. The Grand Master called on the Grand Marshal to make his official proclamation, which was accordingly done. The Grand Chaplain delivered a prayer and the Grand Master made final remarks and called a short recess to allow Brethren and guests to gather in the lodge room. The procession of Grand Lodge officers was reformed at 12:10 p.m. and was led into the lodge room by the Grand Marshal. The Grand Lodge officers assumed the respective stations of the officers of St Aspinquid Lodge. The Grand Master, officers and guests joined in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of our Country. The Worshipful Master welcomed the Grand Master and his suite of officers and requested a re-examination of the Lodge building. The Architect, Wor Robert Hoyt, presented the working tools to the Grand Master, who in turn, called on the Grand Marshal to present them to the Deputy Grand Master,

36 310 Proceedings of the [May Senior Grand Warden and Junior Grand Warden. The Grand Master called on these officers to apply the tools of their offices to the building and make a report. The Deputy Grand Master, R.W. Gerald Leighton, inspected the building and reported that the building was square and the workmen had done their duty. The Senior Grand Warden, R.W Robert Landry, inspected the building and reported the building was level and the workmen had done their duty. The Junior Grand Warden, R.W. Guy Chapman, inspected the building and reported the building was plumb and the workmen had done their duty. The Grand Marshal formed a procession of the Grand Lodge officers and they marched around the lodge room to the altar. The Junior Grand Warden applied the oil and the Grand Master rededicated the lodge hall to Freemasonry. The Senior Grand Warden applied the wine and the Grand Master rededicated the lodge hall to Virtue. The Deputy Grand Master applied the corn and the Grand Mater rededicated the lodge hall to Universal Benevolence. The Grand Marshal led the procession around the lodge and the Grand Lodge officers resumed their stations. The Grand Marshal then made his Official Proclamation. The Grand Master remarked to the Brethren and guests his pleasure in the work that had been done to upgrade the lodge as well as the work done to increase membership by 20% over the past seven years. R.W. Walter Kyllonen, D.D.G.M. of the 19 th District and Lodge Secretary, read a Summary of Significant Changes since 1971which was enclosed in the 2006 time capsule: Today is an important day in the history of St Aspinquid Lodge as we celebrate a renewal of the lodge with a rededication by M.W. Claire V. Tusch, Grand Master and his Grand Lodge suite. The activities include; dedication of a new flagpole donated by Louise Woks and family in memory of Wor Leon works, recognition of a Square and Compasses sign installed on the outside wall behind the new flagpole that was donated by Wor. Doyle Sowerby and family in memory of Bro John Sowerby, laying a new cornerstone listing pertinent dates and finally rededication of the lodge to celebrate the many upgrades since the lodge was originally dedicated in The first major achievement was the effort to fill the dirt parking lot, including the spare lot adjacent to the building lot, purchased by the lodge to supplement parking space. Wor. Charles Weare and Bro Henry Ruch were instrumental in fund raising and organizing the work bringing this major project to completion in early The lodge began renewal efforts in the late 1990s to curb a trend in losing membership. The membership slipped from 361 in 1977 to 216 by Wor Paul Poulin set the first specific goal for membership when he was Master in 1999 to attempt to halt the decline. He set a goal to raise 10 Master Masons and we actually raised 11 and affiliated 5 other existing Masons living in town. Since that time we have continued to raise 10 or more Master masons each year and our present membership total has risen to 254.

37 2006] Grand Lodge of Maine 311 Along with a focus on membership we formed a Square and Compass Club to plan and carry out fellowship and outreach activities. This club found immediate success and the energy generated by outreach activities is considered the key to the good results we enjoy in membership gains. Both potential candidates and affiliates join because they like what we do in the community. The desire of men to join our proud lodge is confirmed by looking at gains over the past decade. In the past decade concluding in 2005, a total of 124 new Master Masons and Affiliates have signed our By-Laws. This is the fourth most productive decade for membership gains since the lodge commenced operations in We also discovered our ladies were interested in the outreach activities of our club and wished to be involved, so now our Square and Compass Club is a Couples Club. The lodge has had the good fortune to have many Brethren since the late 1990s take ownership and provide dedication in upgrading the lodge, much the same as Wor Weare and Bro Ruch did in the late 1970s and early 1980s to fund raise money and organize the work necessary to provide a paved parking lot. The numbers of Brethren involved in major capital improvement projects for upgrading our lodge are too numerous to list, but they are the reason we celebrate a rededication of the lodge today. The following are the major upgrades made: Complete electrical rewiring of the building Constructed a storage shed attached to the back lodge wall Constructed a lodge office and purchased computers, printers and video equipment Connected to the public sewer system Installed underground service wiring from the street to the building Installed parking lot lights Installed a flagpole Installed parking lot lights Installed white marble and black granite tile in lodge room Installed new carpet on upstairs floors Installed pillars in the lodge room Installed air conditioners in lodge room Refurbished downstairs including installation of tile and cove base on the dining hall, kitchen and bathroom floors, installation of fiberglass wall panels in the bathrooms and kitchen, replaced back wall in dining hall, replaced storage room doors and painted cabinets and walls in the kitchen as well as the dining hall. Created handicap bathroom accessibility The lodge has not only enjoyed satisfaction from capital improvement upgrades but our Masonic family has learned the joy realized from helping others and learning when we take care of others we in turn are take care of. This concept has truly brought about a paradigm shift in St Aspinquid Lodge. Wor. Douglas Blaisdell thanked the Grand Master for the work of Grand Lodge officers to rededicate the lodge and made appropriate remarks about the importance of the day to the history of St. Aspinquid.

38 312 Proceedings of the [May M.W. Claire V. Tusch made appropriate remarks and thanked the Grand Lodge officers for their excellent work during the cornerstone laying and the rededication ceremony. He again paid tribute to the memory of Wor. Leon Works and thanked Louise Works and her family for donating a flagpole and being present for the dedication ceremonies. M.W. Tusch complemented the lodge for their success in upgrading their building as well as their outreach activities and membership growth. Grand Chaplain, Wor. Haas gave a benediction and the Grand Master closed the Special Communication in ample form at 1:00 p.m. and everyone retired to the dining room to enjoy a sit down luncheon featuring baked stuffed haddock prepared and served by Masons from Philanthropic Lodge in Marblehead, MA. Fraternally submitted, Hollis G. Dixon Grand Secretary